TEHRAN – During a press conference on Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson reiterated Tehran’s unwavering support for Lebanon in the face of potential threats, particularly from Israel.

Nasser Kanaani emphasized that any violation against Lebanon would only escalate tensions in the region, warning against the repercussions of “adventurous actions” by the Zionists.

Kanaani highlighted Iran's steadfast commitment to supporting Lebanon, stating, “Experience has shown that Lebanon is strong in defending its security. [nonetheless] Iran considers supporting Lebanon a principle.”

The reaffirmation comes after recent remarks made by Kamaal Kharrazi, an advisor to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, who warned of Iran's direct response in case of an Israeli attack on Hezbollah.

“There would be a chance of expansion of the war to the whole region, in which all countries including Iran would become engaged. In that situation, we would have no choice, but to support Hezbollah by all means,” Kharazi said during an interview with the Financial Times, adding that “the expansion of war is not in the interest of anyone — not Iran or the U.S.”

Israeli officials have issued threats of a major military operation against Lebanon, warning of a return to "the stone age" unless Hezbollah and residents of southern Lebanon relocate to an area beyond the Litani River, 10 kilometers from the Lebanese border with the occupied territories. The ultimatum follows months of attacks on Israeli military positions by Hezbollah, which has vowed to continue striking Israel until the regime ends its brutal war in Gaza. 

Analysts believe Israel faces several significant hurdles in launching an incursion into Lebanon, which it wouldn’t be able to tackle without direct help from Washington. 

Iran’s presidential elections held abroad

Kanaani also addressed several issues related to the voting procedures during the two rounds of Iran's snap presidential elections on June 28 and July 5 outside the country, including the harassment of Iranian voters abroad by anti-Iran groups associated with Israel, monarchists, separatists, and terrorists.

"All Iranians are citizens of this country; Iranians abroad are a capital for the nation." Despite challenges faced by Iranians residing outside the country, Kanaani commended their determination to exercise their rights during the recent elections.

Commenting on Canada's refusal to facilitate elections for Iranians within its borders, Kanaani criticized the move, stating, "It is regrettable that a country which often likes to posture as a defender of human rights has deprived a large number of Iranians residing there of using their rights." He highlighted diplomatic efforts to enable Iranians in Canada to participate in the electoral process, which were unfortunately to no avail. 

Regarding Washington’s reaction to Iran's elections, Kanaani described it as interventionist and reflective of hostile policies towards Iran. “We expect the United States of America to respect the democratic process in Iran. Regarding other countries, Iran's principle is interaction with the world. We believe constructive interaction can secure mutual interests. Iran continues its interactive approach with countries worldwide within its system's framework,” he explained. 

A U.S. State Department spokesperson reportedly told an anti-Iran media outlet based in Washington that Iran’s elections are not “fair and free.” The spokesperson did not specify any reason for their claim. 

Iran-U.S. diplomatic channels open

Elsewhere in his remarks, the spokesman confirmed that diplomatic channels between Iran and the United States remain open. “The diplomatic channels between Iran and the U.S. are open and the process of negotiations is in progress. Its details will be published in due time,” he stated. 
   
Kanaani also highlighted the Iranian Foreign Ministry's commitment to protecting the nation's interests, stating that the outgoing administration, established by the late President Ebrahim Raisi, will continue to operate within designated frameworks until the end of its term. 

Concerning President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian's campaign pledge to terminate sanctions, Kanaani emphasized that any agreements would require mutual cooperation. However, he affirmed Iran's commitment to safeguarding its national interests through all available means. 

The diplomat underscored Iran's rational foreign policy approach, characterized by prudence and dignity, and highlighted the country's participation in multilateral mechanisms and cooperation with various countries as crucial factors in strengthening its bargaining power during diplomatic negotiations. He expressed confidence that the incoming administration will utilize all resources to achieve Iran's national interests and leverage past successes.